What Did PM Modi Say About Bihar's Role in India's Economic Growth?
Modi Criticizes RJD Over Ambedkar Insult
Siwan (Bihar): During a rally in Siwan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the RJD for allegedly disrespecting Babasaheb Bhim Rao Ambedkar, emphasizing that the people of Bihar would not accept any affront to the Dalit leader.
This event marked Modi's fifth visit to Bihar this year and his second in less than a month. He praised Bihar's significant contribution to India's status as the 'third largest economy' globally.
In a speech lasting nearly 45 minutes, Modi launched projects exceeding Rs 5,900 crore and inaugurated a Vande Bharat train, warning citizens about the RJD-led opposition's attempts to reclaim Bihar's economic resources ahead of the assembly elections.
Modi remarked, 'Ambedkar opposed dynasty politics, yet they (RJD and allies) disrespect him. I noticed posters demanding an apology for this insult to Babasaheb.'
He continued, 'They have shown no remorse because they hold Dalits in disdain. In contrast, I cherish Babasaheb's legacy.'
While refraining from naming RJD chief Lalu Prasad, Modi referenced a controversial incident involving a portrait of Ambedkar placed near Prasad's feet, which has drawn criticism from the BJP-led NDA.
Modi asserted that the RJD-Congress coalition lacks respect for marginalized communities, stating, 'They believe they are superior to Babasaheb Ambedkar. The people of Bihar will not forgive any disrespect towards him.'
He highlighted that the world is 'greatly impressed' with India's advancements, noting Bihar's crucial role in this progress.
'I just returned from abroad, where leaders from developed nations expressed admiration for India's growth. They are observing our rise as the third-largest economy, and Bihar will play a vital part in this journey,' he stated.
Modi emphasized that the NDA government has worked tirelessly over the past 11 years to eliminate barriers for the underprivileged.
'Our efforts are yielding significant results,' he added, noting that 25 crore Indians have escaped poverty in the last decade, a feat recognized by institutions like the World Bank.
'Bihar and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's government have been instrumental in this achievement,' Modi remarked.
He also mentioned that a prosperous Bihar would contribute to national prosperity.
Targeting the opposition INDIA bloc, he warned, 'My confidence comes from your resilience, having ousted 'jungle raj' years ago. However, those responsible for it are seeking another chance to disrupt our progress.'
'They are employing various tactics to regain control over the state's economic resources,' Modi said, alluding to the populist promises made by the RJD-Congress alliance ahead of the elections.
He reminded the younger generation of the dire conditions Bihar faced under the previous 'jungle raj' regime.
'For centuries, Bihar has led the nation's progress, but the grip of the RJD and Congress has turned it into a symbol of forced migration,' Modi stated.
'Biharis are known for thriving in adversity without losing their dignity, but the Congress-RJD rule has shattered their pride.'
In contrast to the NDA's inclusive development approach, Modi criticized the opposition for promoting 'family rule,' which he claimed contradicts the constitutional values established by Babasaheb Ambedkar.
'This is why the Congress-RJD coalition places portraits of Babasaheb at their feet, while I keep him in my heart,' Modi concluded.
He began his address by greeting the audience in Bhojpuri and paid homage to Siwan's first President Rajendra Prasad and the renowned socialist leader Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan from the nearby Saran district.
The event included the launch of projects worth over Rs 5,900 crore and the inauguration of a Vande Bharat train connecting Pataliputra junction in the state capital to Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh.
'These development initiatives will lead Bihar towards a brighter future and ensure its prosperity,' Modi stated.